A Fresh Batch of Talent
Presbyterian College is set to welcome a wave of fresh talent to its women's soccer program as twelve new players join the squad ahead of the upcoming season. The recruits bring a mix of domestic experience and international flair, positioning the team for a competitive push in the conference and beyond.
Coach Matt Smith, who has guided the program for several years, expressed enthusiasm about the incoming class, emphasizing the blend of elite ability and strong character that each newcomer possesses. He noted that the coaching staff has been scouting these players for months, looking for the right fit both on and off the field.
The new class spans seven different states across the United States, while two standout athletes arrive from abroad, representing Finland and Norway. This geographic diversity reflects the program's expanding reach and its commitment to recruiting top-tier talent regardless of location.
Among the freshmen, Ingeborg Blystad, a Norwegian goalkeeper, arrives after helping her national youth side capture the 2023 Norway Cup title. From North Carolina, Katelynn Ciolek brings two‑time All‑Conference honors and recent All‑State recognition, while defender Ella Duncan, also a North Carolina native, earned three‑time All‑Region accolades and graduated cum laude.
Midfield and attacking options will be strengthened by Peyton Michael, a forward/midfielder from Colorado who scored 57 career goals for the Douglas County Huskies, and Nanna Niva, a Finland‑trained midfielder/defender who excelled at Tyler Junior College before competing in the country's top league.
Additional contributors include Alexa Garcia, a Maine native who recorded 33 shutouts in her final three high school seasons, and the sibling duo Ava and Avery Kornafel from New Jersey, who played together for the Shawnee High School Renegades. Ava Trzebiatowski, a North Carolina captain, led her team to a top‑eight finish, while Katy Verdery from Virginia was honored as an All‑Region performer at Douglas S. Freeman High School.
Looking Ahead
Coach Smith highlighted the academic ambitions of the class, noting that many of the recruits have already mapped out their study plans and intend to balance rigorous coursework with their athletic commitments. He believes the combination of scholarly focus and athletic excellence will translate into a competitive edge on the field.
With a roster that blends domestic depth and international flair, the Presbyterians hope to translate this recruiting coup into a strong showing in the upcoming schedule. The coaching staff is optimistic that the new players will help the team climb the conference standings and make a deeper run in the NCAA tournament.